• Job Description

  Req#: 5021776
  Salary: $5,666.00 - $7,622.00 Monthly
  Location : King County - Multiple Locations, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 2025-05078
  Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
  Division: HCLA
  Opening Date: 09/12/2025
  Closing Date: 9/26/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
  Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
  
  Description
  
  DSHS HCLA - Social Service Specialist 2-3 In-TrainingThe Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring for multiple dedicated Social Service Specialists to join our team(s) in King County, WA.
  
  This specialized role supports individuals with complex mental health and medical needs who are transitioning from correctional or institutional settings to safe and stable placements in the community. You'll conduct in-person assessments, develop individualized care plans, and coordinate long-term services that help clients maintain independence, safety, and well-being in the setting of their choice. This position also works closely with community partners to ensure clients have access to the full range of supports needed for long-term success.
  
  In-Training PlanThe In-Training Plan begins with the selected candidate hired as a Social Service Specialist 2, focusing on foundational training in organizational policies, statutes, and case management practices. During this phase, the employee receives closely supervised, limited, and pre-screened case assignments, along with ongoing coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback. After approximately six months and successful completion of the training plan, evaluated through documented performance reviews, the candidate may be promoted to Social Service Specialist 3 and begin a six-month trial service period in the new role.
  
  King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.
  
  Some of what you'll do:
  • Conduct in-depth assessments and reassessments of clients in various settings, including correctional facilities, private homes, adult family homes, hospitals, or other facilities, using a state-provided computerized system.
  • Work directly with individuals who may exhibit complex or challenging behaviors.
  • Develop individualized care plans that support clients in remaining in or safely transitioning back to the community from institutional settings such as hospitals or nursing facilities.
  • Provide case management services including implementing service plans, monitoring progress, offering advocacy, resolving crises, and coordinating with family members and care providers.
  • Evaluate client needs and circumstances to determine eligibility for long-term services and supports, including initiating, adjusting, or ending services based on state guidelines.
  • Work closely with hospital staff, corrections personnel, residential care providers, behavioral health teams, and other community partners to ensure safe discharges and continued support in the community.
  • Maintain organized and up-to-date electronic case records, prioritize workload effectively, and respond to urgent situations and administrative requests as needed.
  • Take part in team meetings, trainings, and outreach efforts to stay connected with agency goals, service requirements, and available community resources.
  What we're looking for:
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to work effectively with clients, peers, management, the public, and interpreters.
  • Knowledge and application of social casework theory, principles, and practices to support client care and promote independence.
  • Ability to assess client needs, triage care, and resolve complaints while maintaining professionalism, objectivity, and cultural sensitivity.
  • Skilled in identifying social dynamics that influence client choices and using that insight to support sound decision-making.
  • Proficient in writing professional, grammatically correct correspondence and case documentation.
  • Capable of working independently, managing time effectively, meeting deadlines, and following proper communication channels.
  • Adaptable to change, open to diverse perspectives, and committed to problem-solving and developing practical solutions to program challenges.
  Who should apply?
  We are looking for professionals with:
  • One year as a .
    OR
  • A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an
    allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a .
    OR
  • A Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an
    allied field, and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a
  Equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services,
  criminal law/justice or an allied field totaling 5 years will substitute in lieu of degree requirement.
  
  Practicum work will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
  
  NOTE: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division
  within one year of their appointment
  
  Additional information:
  • Work schedule: 8 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
  • This position will be stationed in King County.
  • Snohomish County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.
  • This position offers a hybrid work schedule (remote and in-office) based on business needs.
  Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!Along with your application, please include:
  • An updated resume
  • Three professional references with contact information
  Questions?Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Peter Bonato at peter.bonato@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #05078.
  The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency's vision that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
  Supplemental Information
  Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
  Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
  E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
  More than Just a Paycheck!
  Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
  
  We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
  
  Read about our benefits:
  The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
  
  Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
  
  Insurance Benefits
  Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
  
  Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
  
  To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
  
  Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
  
  Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
  
  The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
  
  Retirement and Deferred Compensation
  State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
  
  Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
  
  Social Security
  All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
  
  Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
  
  Holidays
  Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
  
  Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
  
  Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
  
  Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
  
  Sick Leave
  Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
  
  Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  Vacation (Annual Leave)
  Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
  
  Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
  
  Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
  
  Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
  
  Military Leave
  Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
  
  Bereavement Leave
  Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
  
  Additional Leave
  Leave Sharing
  
  Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  Leave Without Pay
  
  Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
  
  Updated 07-21-2025
  01
  
  Which of the following best describes how you meet the minimum qualifications for this position? (Select the one option that best applies)
  • I have one year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1.
  • I have a Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field AND at least one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
  • I have a Bachelor's degree in one of the fields listed above and at least two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
  • I have a combined total of at least five years of relevant education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or an allied field that qualifies me in lieu of a degree.
  • I do not meet any of the above qualifications.
  
  Required Question

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